Dealing with tough interviewers

I think you have relevant experience, you are passing meds, managing care, families, doctors. Don't sell yourself and your experierence short. I assume most of your patients come from Med/Surg floors, so you can talk about the level of care you provide and the experience you have with meds, treatments, feeding tubes. I would think any hospital would be happy to hire someone with that kind of experience

I too, have had that type of response over the years, when going from long term care to acute care.

Here is a short version from a cover letter I sent. Please feel free to take anything you think may assist you in your search.

My experience in long term care, polished my time management and organizational skills. I use humor along with sharing of my knowledge to assist in patient/resident care. I learned to make priorites and be able to assess situtations quickly. My knowledge and considerable experience as a leader inspires, teaches, and guides those I supervise by providing a clear vision, clear expectations, and an environment that fosters teamwork.

I feel confident that my knowledge, skills, and experience are a good fit.

Interview #1 for Telemetry responded by: "You are in long term care, and this position requires acute care experience. I know this is an entry level position but why should I choose someone who has been exposed to LTC so long vs a student who I can pay cheaper and is fresh from the hospital setting?"

I'm sure this was terrifying the first time it was asked without warning. But the next time this happens it is the PERFECT opportunity to sell yourself. Coming from LTC:

- you are independent, unlike a new grad - you'll require less orientation

- you can handle 10,0000 patients/shift, unlike a new grad (or RN from another area)

- you have supervised others and can delegate intelligently (CNAs, med techs, etc)

- you have proven that you are a safe nurse (assuming no write-ups!)

- you have experience thinking on your feet, prioritizing, and critically assessing situations independently & with limited support, unlike a new grad (or RN from another area)

- you are a reliable employee (because you had to be) who doesn't call out sick, show up late, or no-show

- unlike a new grad who will take any job they get (just like you did), you have much clearer reasons for accepting their position. you're more likely to stick around past the 1 year mark.